How ShelfGrove works

What ShelfGrove is — and what it is not

ShelfGrove is a free matching service for homeowners planning a custom closet or storage system. We help you get connected with local builders for spaces like reach-in and walk-in closets, garages, pantries, laundry rooms, mudrooms, home offices, under-stair built-ins, and walls of shelving.

We are not a closet company, cabinet shop, or installer. We do not design, build, or install systems ourselves. Our role is to help you start clearly, understand the basics, and get connected so you can compare options and decide who to hire.

This is general information only. For anything involving measurements that affect the final build, permits, electrical, structural questions, or load-bearing concerns, hire licensed, insured builders and confirm local requirements yourself.

Step 1: Tell us about your space

Start at Get matched. We ask for simple contact and project details only: your name, phone number, optional email, the type of space, your ZIP code, and your preferred language.

You can also share what you are hoping to build — for example, a reach-in closet with double hanging and a few drawers, a walk-in with shelves and shoe storage, or a garage wall system. That helps us understand your project intent before connecting you.

We do not ask for financial account numbers, Social Security numbers, income, or sensitive personal records. Keep it simple: what space you have, what you want help with, and how a local builder can reach you.

• Name and phone are enough to get started
• Email is optional
• Preferred language helps us communicate clearly

Step 2: We connect you with local builders

After you send your request, we match your project with licensed, insured local closet and storage-system builders in or near your area. Availability varies by ZIP code, project type, and builder schedule, so we do not promise a specific builder or timeline.

The builder handles the actual design, measuring, pricing, materials, and installation. You should still verify that any builder you consider is properly licensed and insured for your area and project.

If you are new to this process, how closet design and install works gives a plain overview of what usually happens from first call to final install.

Step 3: Compare design ideas, system types, and real costs

Most custom closet and storage systems are priced by linear foot of wall, then adjusted for the actual components. As a general planning range, wire systems are usually the lowest-cost option, often around $90-$180 per linear foot installed. Melamine or laminate systems are commonly the best value-to-look choice for most homes, often around $150-$350 per linear foot. Solid wood or wood veneer systems are the premium tier, often around $300-$600+ per linear foot. These are not quotes.

For a small project, that can mean roughly $700-$2,500 for a basic reach-in, $2,000-$6,500 for a more built-out walk-in, or more for premium finishes and heavy accessory use. The real number depends on system type, materials, accessories, your area, and the size of the space.

Watch the upcharges. The items that raise prices fastest are drawers and pull-outs, soft-close hardware, premium finishes, lighting, islands, and removal of old shelving. Ask each builder for the all-in price in writing before you agree to anything.

A good rule: add only the parts you will actually use. Many homeowners get more value from more shelves and hanging sections than from extra drawers, specialty racks, or decorative upgrades.

Step 4: Choose who to hire — you stay in control

You compare the options, ask questions, and decide whether to move forward with any builder. ShelfGrove does not choose for you, and you are not locked in just because you asked to be matched.

Before any work starts, confirm the system type, finish, shelf and drawer count, accessories, lead time, and all-in price. Make sure old shelving removal, touch-up work, and any add-ons are clearly listed in writing.

If anything is unclear, ask for it to be written down plainly. The goal is simple: no surprise upcharges, no confusion about materials, and no guessing about what is included.

Why homeowners use ShelfGrove

Many people know they need better storage but do not know where to begin, what type of system fits their budget, or what a fair price looks like. ShelfGrove helps make that first step simpler and clearer.

We focus on practical information, plain language, and a free way to get connected locally. If you want to learn more about the service itself, visit About ShelfGrove.

When you're ready, go to Get matched and tell us about your space.